Chapter Two – Christian Grey

Inhaling deeply, I look to my left at the beautiful picture of Ana. My Anastasia. The stolen moment of her, young and carefree… happy. I close my eyes, take another deep breath, and push my longing for her touch to the back of my mind. I flip through my emails, occasionally giving an approval or confirming a meeting. I glance at my pasha de Cartier watch, and stand just as I hear my assistant Andrea break through the intercom system.

"Mr. Grey, Miss Bailey is ready for you in conference room seven. She has the new head of Human Resources there as well."

"Thank you, on my way," I respond curtly. I straighten my tie and head the short distance to the conference room. As I push open the door and step into the room, I momentarily freeze before regaining my composure and waiting as both women stand. I eye our new head of Human Resources, recognition flashing through both of our eyes briefly. I quickly survey her appearance and to my surprise, Louboutins and if I'm not mistaken Alexander McQueen? Hmmmm, impressive.

"Good morning, Miss Raynes. A pleasure to see you again."

Eva Raynes

"Mr. Grey, I believe the pleasure is all mine," I stand and grab his outstretched hand. I bat my lashes, lick my lips and smile. I gather the documents I'll need to go over before my start date, and prepare to leave. His Blackberry rings and he excuses himself to answer, oblivious to my charms. I stare after him as he exits, wishing he would take me with him.

"Eva, you know tomorrow is my birthday. Gwen and I will be going out for a little fun on the town, I would be delighted if you would join us. We have tons of catching up to do, it's been awhile since college," Ros excitedly says to me.

"Well I would love to, but I wouldn't want to be the third wheel with you two love birds," I respond.

"Nonsense! Christian will be there as well and we're just going for drinks and a little dancing. Please Eva, we haven't seen each other in years," She bats her lashes and puts her hands together as if to beg.

Why didn't she say so before? "Ah okay I guess. I can't believe you convinced me to take this position. I was hoping for a little more time to get my head wrapped around the change of scenery."

"And let someone else snatch you up? I can't believe you left Tilton Industries, I heard you had a sweet deal over there."

I swallow trying to get the lump out of my throat, if she only knew. I smile weakly and open my arms for a hug. "Thank you for having me at your company, Ros. You know if nothing else, I am about my business. I'll have your mess of an HR department cleaned up in no time," I joke hoping to change the subject.

"Well, it was great seeing you again, and I'll email you the details for tomorrow," she smiles and returns my hug.

"Alright, I'll be looking for it." I exit the conference room, taking double strides out to the elevator and then out to my car before the tears start to fall.